FRISCO BANS ELECTRONIC CIGARETTES WHERE SMOKING IS ALREADY PROHIBITED; CITY ALSO BANS E-CIGARETTE SALES TO MINORS

(February 21, 2014.) Effective March 8, electronic cigarette vaping is banned everywhere smoking is prohibited in the City of Frisco.

Earlier this week, the Frisco City Council unanimously passed (6-0) an ordinance that adds electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) or liquid nicotine to the city’s definition of smoking. The newly adopted ordinance also bans e-cigarette sales, possession and use by minors, or anyone under 18.

Since smoking is already banned in most public places in Frisco, vaping will not be allowed in locations including, but not limited to, city owned or operated facilities, including the Frisco Public Library; schools; hospitals and health care facilities; theatres; sports venues and arenas; restaurants; grocery stores; Stonebriar Centre Mall, including department and retail stores; banks, public-common areas within hotels; and public restrooms.

Vaping will not be allowed within twenty linear feet of any entrance of any facility where smoking is already prohibited.

Self-service merchandising of e-cigarettes is not allowed under the ordinance, which requires vendor assisted sales. Any violation is a misdemeanor and may be punishable by a fine up to $500.